The Nintendo Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is a legendary console that was released in the early 1990s. During its lifespan, it went through various revisions and updates, but one of the most sought-after games among collectors and enthusiasts is Big Sky Trooper. In this article, we will delve into the world of Big Sky Trooper and explore its unique features, gameplay mechanics, and what makes it a standout title in the SNES library.

Background and Release History

Big Sky Trooper was originally released in 1990 as a launch title for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in Japan. It was later released in North America in 1991 as part of the console's initial lineup. The game was developed by Human Entertainment, a renowned Japanese video game developer that was known for its work on various arcade titles and home console games.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Big Sky Trooper is an action-adventure game that takes place in a futuristic world where players control a character named Alex, who must navigate through a series of levels to defeat an evil organization known as "The Syndicate." The game features a unique blend of exploration, platforming, and combat elements, which sets it apart from other titles in the SNES library.

Players take control of Alex, who can move left and right, jump, and shoot energy beams from his hands. The game features a variety of enemies, including robotic soldiers, drones, and mechs, each with their own unique abilities and weaknesses. As players progress through the levels, they will encounter bosses that require specific strategies to defeat.

One of the standout features of Big Sky Trooper is its use of an "energy meter" system, which allows players to charge up Alex's energy beams and perform more powerful attacks. The game also features a variety of power-ups, including health boosts, shields, and temporary invincibility.

Graphics and Soundtrack

Big Sky Trooper boasts impressive graphics for its time, with detailed backgrounds and characters that were rare in the SNES library at the time. The game's visuals are often compared to those of other Human Entertainment titles, such as "Dynamite Headdy" and "Bullies."

The soundtrack, composed by Hiroyuki Hashimoto, is equally impressive, featuring a mix of electronic and rock elements that complement the game's futuristic setting. The music is catchy and memorable, with many players still humming the theme song today.

Age Rating

Big Sky Trooper is rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it contains some violence, mild language, and suggestive content. However, the game's ESRB rating does not reflect its more mature themes and imagery, which may include references to violence, sexuality, and political dissent.

Age Range Recommendation

Due to its mature themes and graphic content, Big Sky Trooper is recommended for players aged 17 and above. Younger players may find some of the game's content too intense or disturbing, while older players will likely appreciate the game's unique blend of action and adventure elements.

Collectibility and Rarity

Big Sky Trooper is considered a rare and highly sought-after title among SNES collectors. Its limited production run and early release date have made it a holy grail for many enthusiasts, with prices ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the condition and rarity of the cartridge.

In 2020, a near-mint condition copy of Big Sky Trooper sold for $1,300 on eBay, while a complete-in-box (CIB) version with all original packaging and inserts fetched $3,500. These prices are likely to continue to rise as the game's popularity grows among collectors and enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Big Sky Trooper is a unique and captivating title that has captured the hearts of many SNES enthusiasts over the years. Its blend of action, adventure, and exploration elements makes it a standout in the console library, while its limited production run and early release date have made it a rare and highly sought-after collector's item.

If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding experience that will test your skills and keep you engaged for hours on end, Big Sky Trooper is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for some mature themes and graphic content that may not be suitable for younger players.